Outdoors NearbySheepeater Hot Springs
A natural hot spring next to the Sheepeater camp on the Middle Fork of the Salmon River in the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness. It is visited by rafters on permitted multi-day trips. Sheepeater Hot Springs costs nothing to visit.
| Access | Free, public land Reached only by floating the Middle Fork of the Salmon River (river mile 13.0). A Forest Service permit is required; May 28–September 3 launches go through a lottery. |
|---|---|
| Type | Natural spring |
| Location | Idaho Managed by USFS Salmon-Challis NF (Middle Fork Ranger District) Directions (approximate location; check the official map) |
| Prices | Middle Fork special recreation fee: $4.00 per person per day (or Salmon Rivers Season Pass; $6 lottery/reservation fee) Checked October 2026 on the operator's site |
| Season | Float season; permits by lottery May 28–September 3 |
| Reservations | required |
| Camping | Sheepeater camp, left bank (assigned river camp) (0 mi) |
Best time to soak: Sheepeater Hot Springs
From November to April average highs near Idaho stay at 33 to 57 °F, with nights down to 15 °F. Freezing nights from November to March mean icy steps and possible road closures; traction for your shoes helps.
| Month | High | Low | Rain days |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 34 °F | 16 °F | 5 |
| Feb | 40 °F | 18 °F | 3 |
| Mar | 50 °F | 25 °F | 4 |
| Apr | 57 °F | 31 °F | 5 |
| May | 67 °F | 38 °F | 5 |
| Jun | 75 °F | 44 °F | 6 |
| Jul | 86 °F | 48 °F | 2 |
| Aug | 85 °F | 46 °F | 2 |
| Sep | 76 °F | 39 °F | 3 |
| Oct | 61 °F | 31 °F | 4 |
| Nov | 43 °F | 23 °F | 5 |
| Dec | 33 °F | 15 °F | 6 |
More to do nearby
- Dagger Falls (waterfall, 8 mi)
Pack for the hot springs
- Earth Pak roll-top waterproof dry bag Keeps your phone, keys and dry clothes safe on wet rocks next to the pool. View on Amazon
- Battery-free floating water thermometer Check a pool before you get in. Natural springs can run hotter than they look. View on Amazon
- Top pick 4Monster quick-dry microfiber towel with case Packs small for the hike to the pools and dries in the car on the way home. View on Amazon
We haven't tested these ourselves; we chose them by size and specs. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases, at no extra cost to you. Check the current price on Amazon.
Hot springs in the area
- Sunflower Hot Springs Free
- Whitey Cox Hot Springs Free
- Lower Loon Creek Hot Springs Free
- Hospital Bar Hot Springs Free
- Vulcan Hot Springs Free
- Trail Creek Hot Springs Free
- Elkhorn Hot Springs Free
- Bonneville Hot Springs Free
Waterfalls nearby
- Dagger Falls (8 mi)
Sources
Access, prices and rules come from these official pages, checked October 2026. Hot springs close for weather, repairs or high water, so confirm before you go.
Something changed? Tell us.
Frequently asked questions
How much does Sheepeater Hot Springs cost?
Yes. Sheepeater Hot Springs is on public land with no soaking fee.
When is Sheepeater Hot Springs open?
Float season; permits by lottery May 28–September 3.
Can you camp near Sheepeater Hot Springs?
Sheepeater camp, left bank (assigned river camp) (0 mi).
How far is Sheepeater Hot Springs from Boise?
About 86 miles from Boise in a straight line; the drive is longer.